The modern mullet has made a significant comeback, shedding its past associations to become a symbol of contemporary, edgy style. Characterised by its shorter front and sides and longer back, this updated version is all about soft layers, dynamic texture, and effortless volume. It's a versatile cut that can be adapted to various hair types and personal styles, making it a popular choice for those looking to make a statement. Mastering the styling is key to showcasing its unique shape and movement. This guide will walk you through the steps to achieve a perfectly textured and voluminous modern mullet at home.
Understanding the Appeal of the Modern Mullet
Unlike its more rigid predecessor, the modern mullet—often called a 'shullet' (shag-mullet hybrid)—is defined by its softness and versatility. The transition between the short and long sections is more blended, creating a fluid, less abrupt silhouette. The focus is on creating a lived-in look with plenty of movement. This is achieved through clever layering that removes weight while encouraging natural texture and body. The beauty of this cut lies in its customisability; it can be soft and subtle or bold and dramatic, depending on the length variation and styling choices.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Styling Your Mullet
Achieving that signature texture and volume requires a few key steps. While the cut itself does much of the work, the right styling techniques will elevate the look and bring the layers to life.
Step 1: Start with the Right Foundation
Proper preparation is crucial for any great hairstyle. Begin by washing and conditioning your hair with products suited to your hair type. If you have fine hair, opt for volumising formulas. If your hair is thick or coarse, focus on smoothing and hydrating products. After washing, gently towel-dry your hair until it's damp but not dripping. Before any heat styling, always apply a heat protectant spray evenly from roots to ends to shield your strands from damage. This creates a protective barrier and helps to smooth the hair cuticle for a better finish.
Step 2: Build Volume at the Roots
Volume is a cornerstone of the modern mullet, particularly at the crown and through the shorter top layers. To achieve this, apply a volumising mousse or root-lifting spray directly to the roots of your damp hair. For maximum lift, flip your head upside down and begin blow-drying, focusing the airflow on the roots while using your fingers to tousle and lift the hair away from the scalp. When your hair is about 80% dry, flip your head back up. Use a round brush to lift sections of hair at the crown, directing the heat from the blow-dryer at the roots before pulling the brush through to the ends. This will create lasting height and body.
Step 3: Create and Enhance Texture
Texture is what gives the modern mullet its character. There are several ways to achieve this, depending on your hair's natural pattern.
- For Wavy or Curly Hair: If you have natural waves or curls, a diffuser attachment on your blow-dryer is your best friend. Apply a curl-enhancing cream or a sea salt spray to your damp hair. Cup sections of your hair in the diffuser and hold it close to your scalp on a low speed and medium heat setting. This will encourage your natural curl pattern without creating frizz.
- For Straight Hair: To create texture in straight hair, you can use a flat iron or curling wand to add subtle bends and waves, particularly in the longer sections at the back and sides. Alternate the direction of the waves for a more natural, undone look. Alternatively, after applying a sea salt or texturising spray, you can scrunch your hair with your hands as it air-dries or while using a blow-dryer to create a tousled, beachy effect.
Step 4: Define the Layers and Finish the Look
The final step is to define the individual layers to showcase the haircut's structure. Take a small amount of a light-hold pomade, wax, or texturising paste and warm it between your fingertips. Gently run your fingers through your hair, twisting and separating small sections and ends to highlight the choppy layers. Be careful not to use too much product, as this can weigh the hair down. The goal is to create separation and a piecey finish. To lock everything in place and add an extra boost of volume, you can finish with a light mist of flexible-hold hairspray or a texturising spray.
Maintaining Your Style All Day
To keep your mullet looking fresh, a few touch-up tricks can help. If your roots start to fall flat throughout the day, a quick spritz of dry shampoo can instantly revive volume. Simply lift sections of hair and spray it at the roots, then massage it in with your fingertips. A travel-sized texturising spray can also be used to quickly scrunch and rejuvenate movement in the lengths and ends. The modern mullet is designed to look a bit imperfect, so don't be afraid to embrace a little frizz and flyaways as part of its charm.
